Question- Need answer ASAP!

iVillage Member
Registered: 04-04-2005
Question- Need answer ASAP!
1
Mon, 03-27-2006 - 8:59pm
Hi everyone..
I'm on Ortho- Lo right now and I just decided that I want to stop taking it (I don't need to be on it anymore so I don't really see the point). The thing is, I just started a new cycle Monday (so I've taken 2 pills so far). I'd really like to just stop taking it now, but will there be any side effects to doing so? If you have any info., Please let me know! I want to decide by tomorrow.
Thanks!!
iVillage Member
Registered: 12-30-2003
Mon, 03-27-2006 - 9:23pm

Hi ward123, welcome!

This board does not recommend stopping BCPs mid-pack but it can be done. If you are on them only for contraception and you are certain you don't need to be on them any more then you can stop at any time. If you are on your pills for other medical reasons we recommend that you discuss stopping with your doctor before you actually stop taking them. Once you stop mid-pack you are no longer protected by your pills and should use another effective form of contraception.

If you stop mid cycle (even after just 2 pills) you will probably have another pill-period (withdrawal bleed) for a few days as your body adjusts to the loss of the artificial hormones. When I stopped OTC almost 4 years ago I had no unpleasant side effects and my libido came back and I felt so much better after only 2 weeks.

Thanks for posting. Let us know what you decide and how you're doing, ok?

Good luck,

      Jill